Greene King: vegan dishes up 265% yoy

Greene King has reported total sales of vegan dishes were up 265% year-on-year.

Tracking the year to date, the pub company has seen sales of vegan main dishes up another 14% year-on-year, as more Brits pledge to the growing trend of Veganuary.

Across Greene King’s managed estate, the company increased the number of dishes in its vegan range by 45% over the last year.

The brands are offering vegan starters, mains and desserts to help accommodate demand, with dishes ranging from Woodland Mushroom Pie to a Chinese Veggie Burger.

With a further volume growth of plant-based dishes, including a vegan pizza due to launch in more than 250 Hungry Horse pubs next month, the company is expecting another sales jump across the category in 2020.

Phil Thomas, chief commercial officer at Greene King, said: “It’s no secret that across the sector we’re seeing an increase in demand for vegan dishes as more and more customers choose plant-based meals, but I think what is surprising is the rate of growth.

“There’s certainly the demand there for vegan food and as we further expand our menu to include new, exciting and innovative dishes, it would be safe to expect further category growth throughout Veganuary and beyond.”